Coming up on
Special Assignment (25 August 2009):
Episode Title: Forced Love
Broadcast date: Tuesday, 25 August 2009
Tonight Special Assignment examines the centuries old practice of ‘uku thwala’ in the Eastern Cape. This comes with a rise in abduction of teenage girls in the province. It is believed many of these girls are being forced into early marriages.
The Congress of Traditional Leaders in South Africa and the Human Rights Commission have condemned the abductions. Police say they are acting against it. Police spokesperson Mzukisi Fatyela adds: "We do not have mercy towards people who violate other people's rights. So we arrest those who abduct children and force them into marriage."
Human Rights Watch says it will conduct educational campaigns in the Eastern Cape to educate residents about the importance of children's rights.
‘Ukuthwalwa’ has been equated to human trafficking. It’s ‘re-emergence’ has also been attributed to the worsening poverty in rural areas. This may be so - but there is a possibility that the culture has become so entrenched over time, that there are many people who still practice it who will not be dissuaded.
The show tells the story from the perspective of those who are living the culture as well as those who are the ‘victims’ and those who believe in its relevance.
The documentary is produced by Asanda Magaqa.
Special Assignment is on SABC3 on Tuesdays at 20h31.